WHO: Janice, 49, and her daughter Jessica, 22.

AGENCY: Safe Futures provides free and confidential programs and services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and trafficking.

THEIR SITUATION: Janice's husband's verbal and emotional abuse started slowly when she became pregnant and worsened after Jessica was born. It escalated into physical violence, and Janice called the police after an altercation. Her now ex-husband was arrested; he later stalked her and made threats to get custody of Jessica. Safe Futures' court advocates helped Janice throughout the court case with orders of protection, safety planning and referrals to support groups and more. The agency got a tutor for Jessica, who was struggling in school, and her grades rose to A's; she now is headed to graduate school. Janice, who was suffering from a major medical issue, underwent surgery and is unable to work. Jessica is helping to care for her. After a recent fire destroyed many of their belongings, they are searching for a new home.

WHAT TO GIVE: Funds to help pay rent and utilities, laptop for school and gift cards for furniture, groceries, clothing items (women's warm robes, slippers and boots in size 9) and household items such as dishes, pots and pans, curtains and blinds and small kitchen appliances.

TO DONATE: Mail donations to Safe Futures, Attention: Make a Difference, 16 Jay St., New London, CT 06320. Monetary donations may also be made on Safe Futures' website, safefuturesct.org/donatenow; note "Make a Difference" in the comment section.